Sorry for the silence, everyone! If you're following us on Twitter, you already know that we've been on the road again, shopping the flea market with readers and producing stories for magazines. Speaking of, have you seen my cover of Woman's Day this month?
For over a year, editor in chief Elizabeth Mayhew has been adeptly reinventing the magazine, freshening up its pages with smart but subtle changes. Now there's a new Creative Director in the house as well. Liza Aelion's her name, formerly of The Knot/Nest/Bump. She's the talent behind that sleek layout of my budget bedroom makeover in The Nest. For the April issue of Woman's Day, Elizabeth and Liza presented me with a dream assignment: Produce an easy but elegant entertaining/craft story for Easter, one of my absolute favorite holidays. Flash forward five months, and here you have it! The eggs on the cover are a mix of paper mâché and plastic boxes that I glittered and covered with Caspari paper napkins, then embellished with flower confetti.
That's Home Editor Ayn-Monique Klahre, holding a dish of creamy scalloped potatoes, some of the best I've ever had! The topiaries I made by gluing paper napkin-covered plastic eggs onto Easter grass-covered Styrofoam cones, while the compotes are vintage ironstone from our prop house. How pretty would they be as a centerpiece on a brunch buffet or two on either side of a fireplace mantle?
Silverplate bread baskets you (or your mother) once owned get a modern makeover filled with candy and decorated eggs, some my own, others by über-talented Ukranian artist Katya Trishuck. Check out her shop on Etsy!
By now, you may have already heard that Jaithan and I moved from our farmhouse in Millerton, New York to a charming town in northwest Connecticut called Norfolk. More on that to come, I assure you, but for now, here's the table I set for a casual Easter brunch in the breakfast room of...our new house! The white chargers are from Christmas Tree Shop, while the blue plates are vintage Fire King Azurite that I've been collecting for years. The depression glass egg cups in the center were a gift from our friend Kelley Moore, one of my talented co-hosts on HGTV's Halloween Block Party!
Here's a shot of the Easter buffet I styled on the Parsons table now in our window for Carleton V.
I may not have cooked the food myself, but every recipe is super easy to follow and tasted delicious!
The paper napkin-covered eggs, topiary and glittered egg box I made are all just as doable, I promise.
So with plenty of time until Easter, why not create something beautiful you and your family will love and keep for years to come?
Huge thanks to photographer Mikki Duisterof, one of the best in the business, together with all the talented editors at Woman's Day. Happy Easter egg decorating, everyone! Come back soon for everything that went on behind the scenes!
Wait, I cannot ftahom it being so straightforward.
Posted by: Deena | July 27, 2011 at 12:52 PM
I love the aqua/green color scheme!
Posted by: web banner design | May 10, 2011 at 09:34 AM
Eddie,
I shared the magazine ideas with many friends and they loved the centerpiece. I had a silver plated bread basket and I used it to put my colored eggs in. I loved the idea of the tissue paper grass too. i will try that ! I love all your ideas. I look forward to the next holiday!
Posted by: I have shared the | April 23, 2011 at 08:21 PM
Well...that is just about the prettiest! The colors....the photography...the styling...way to go!
Posted by: sherry hart | April 21, 2011 at 02:40 PM
Everything you do makes me want to lay in the floor and kick and scream because it's so beautiful and I know I could never do anything even remotely as perfect. (I meant this as a compliment even though it makes me sound like a rude brat.)
Posted by: Sara Jane | April 13, 2011 at 01:59 PM
yeah..
much green color..so summer is not behind of mountains;)
Posted by: corporate catering Toronto | April 11, 2011 at 12:40 PM
AB-FAB and STUNNING as usual Eddie! You are such an inspiration!! I can see this color combo becoming an obsession for summer ~ it's so refreshing!! xo
:D Lynda
Posted by: Lynda | April 10, 2011 at 09:10 AM
This post makes me want to run out and dye Easter eggs! When is Easter by the way?
www.ajbarnesonline.blogspot.com
Posted by: Randy | April 09, 2011 at 08:55 AM
Just beautiful Eddie! Love the color palette - I'm so inspired- must dig into my Easter decorating ideas soon. Hope you guys are both well - wish I could just pop over for a quick visit but all going well here in Ireland - our home is going to be featured in House & Home magazine next issue so thrilled with that-
Posted by: Lisa McGee | April 08, 2011 at 04:09 AM
You continue to amaze me! The Easter table is beyond fabulous. xo
Posted by: Marianne - Style For Living | April 07, 2011 at 05:54 PM
so fabulous. love that you nixed the typical pastel route and went with bold spring colors! may have to run out and pick up an issue, because those scalloped potatoes look DEElicious!
Posted by: sarah g | April 07, 2011 at 02:26 PM
You did an amazing job on this feature. The table and accessories are gorgeous. Welcome to your new home too!
Posted by: El | April 07, 2011 at 02:17 PM
LOVE LOVE LOVE! I featured you today:
http://puertabella.blogspot.com/2011/04/easter-eddie-styled.html
xoxo
Posted by: susan@pocacosa | April 07, 2011 at 11:02 AM
You guys are amazing. Off to try these eggs this weekend!
XOXO
Hooper
Posted by: Hooper Patterson | April 07, 2011 at 10:01 AM
Your Easter eggstravaganza is spectacular!
It somewhat reminds me of what David Hicks would have done for Easter. Well done.
On Monday I wrote a post on the origins of Hollywood Regency and I kept coming across images that I thought "Oh E & J would love this."
Andrea and I are off to France soon. On my list is a torchon with J's initials this time. After all, it would appear a housewarming gift is needed. Can't wait to hear the details.
Posted by: Laura Ingalls Gunn | April 07, 2011 at 09:52 AM
Easter is my favorite holiday too and sometimes falls on my birthday making it extra special.
Love, love, love all your decorating suggestions, tutorials, and the way you display everything.
Posted by: Sue Giannotta | April 07, 2011 at 06:13 AM
I can't believe it's already been a year since your lovely Elizabeth Taylor Easter table and all those eggs you glittered up...it was breathtaking...and did her beauty great honor!
I love truquoise and green together and the combo looks so fresh and pretty here...very spring-like!!
Many congratulations on the cover...I think you should have a standing spot there!
xo J~
Posted by: Jessica | April 06, 2011 at 09:51 PM
I was wondering if you ever considered putting pics of your store windows in your portfolio section, cause I like staring at them endlessly.
Posted by: KatyB | April 06, 2011 at 05:59 PM
I just adore the colour-scheme, so fresh! And the eggs are just so pretty.What a fabulous post.
Posted by: Modern Country Lady | April 06, 2011 at 04:07 PM
We love the pops of color in this story! We can't wait for spring festivities!
http://theinsidesource.com/article/fashion/vintage-shoe-buckle-jewelry
Posted by: The Inside Source | April 06, 2011 at 03:51 PM
Absolutely love that diy egg craft! I can do that, I think!!
You always inspire me to look at what I have and use it in a new and fresh way.
So excited to hear you had fun in Texas and met some of my extended family!!! Can't wait to see you when you're back this way.
xoxo Elizabeth
Posted by: pretty pink tulips | April 06, 2011 at 03:41 PM
You are so genius...You never cease to amaze me.
Posted by: austingray@gmail.com | April 06, 2011 at 02:10 PM
A couple of months ago I re-subscribed to Woman's Day (after a long absence) and I'm so glad I did. You've really outdone yourself. The table scapes and decorations are extra lovely and I'm already thinking about some of the recipes for my Easter dinner.
Can't wait to see more glimpses of your new home. Congrats to you guys!
Have a fabulous day!
Julie
Posted by: Fabulous Finds Studio | April 06, 2011 at 11:53 AM
Eddie and Jaithan,
Norfolk is beautiful. Congratulations on your new home. Can't wait to hear all about it. Woman's Day has come a long way, hasn't it? Your cover and articles with tutorials are delightful. I did not know Elizabeth Mayhew was the new editor in chief.
Happy Spring, Rosemary
Posted by: Content in a Cottage | April 06, 2011 at 10:51 AM
E+J- The Easter spread makes me want to pull up a chair. Beautiful! Happy Spring!
Loretta
Posted by: Loretta Fontaine (APPLESandRUBIES) | April 06, 2011 at 09:49 AM
Lot's of fabulous ideas. I'm going to try and incorporate some into my Easter Brunch. Mona
Posted by: Mona Thompson | April 06, 2011 at 09:28 AM
Just this morning I was looking at the styrofoam cones that I never got around to using at Christmas and wondered if I could use them at Easter - and now I can. I can't wait to see photos of your new home.
Love to you both. xx
Posted by: Perfecting Pru | April 06, 2011 at 08:55 AM
I love the mix turquoise and green.
Right now I have found a home gateway with Art-Nouveau tiles with these colors.
I love them, I did a post for my other blog "cámara de maravillas"
So I have data very, very happy to see this again in your table for Easter.
I love it!
http://camara-de-maravillas.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Jürgen | April 06, 2011 at 03:20 AM
First of all - congratulations on the new home! Look at all that natural light in your breakfast room! Can't wait to get the house tour.
And secondly - Woman's day is lucky to have you! I bet they sell many extra copies because of YOU! The whole magazine actually looks more fun than ever. Might need to start getting it to my maibox.
Warm hugs to you both,
Mon
Posted by: Splendid Willow | April 06, 2011 at 01:55 AM
dear e+j
what can i possibly add to all the adoring comments?
every aspect of Easter is gloriously celebrated with your creative skills. and your dining room is stunning
the cover is divine, congratulations dear friends!!
xo
debra
Posted by: debra phillips | April 06, 2011 at 01:23 AM
Oh Eddie your posts are always amazing. You hand over a wealth of information and how-to's, and as always, I lean back in my chair feeling totally inspired!
What would take most people a whole magazine to explain and relay, you do with ease in only a few words. You're so great! x
The napkin covered eggs. Genius! I will try that but sadly not this year as we are abandoning the home base over Easter and heading down to the stunning island of Tasmania. A road trip adventure awaits us and we are all so excited.
The Easter buffet looks perfect! Love the freshness of the green & white and all the scrumptious dishes. That creamy scalloped potato dish looks heaven!
Ok, before I write an essay here.. Have a wonderful Easter (if we don't touch base before) and send my love to J.
I am in close contact with Debra and know she is going through a rough patch again. Please give her a warm hug from me when you see her next.
xx Charlotta
Posted by: Charlotta | April 05, 2011 at 10:42 PM
I loved the cover and glitter eggs.
I didn't know that you had moved to CT. Best wishes to you and Jaithan in your new home.
Posted by: Carole | April 05, 2011 at 10:16 PM
It's unusual to have
Easter so late in the
spring, but it is great
to have the extra time
to create something special,
like you have done here.
All of your fresh ideas
have really helped propel
WD in a wonderful new
direction. Congrats on
your new abode in Connecticut!
xx Suzanne
Posted by: Privet and Holly | April 05, 2011 at 10:08 PM
Love love love the eggs, and I'm not one for much Easter decor, although I love the holiday. You made it look pretty without being cute, and that's a feat for Easter! Congrats on your new home. That area of CT is utterly gorgeous. Maybe I'll run into you in the antique shops. Check out the downtown areas of New Milford and Kent. Oh, and the shops in New Preston. Just beautiful.
Posted by: Carol@SofasandSage | April 05, 2011 at 09:14 PM
Wow! This issue is jam packed with great ideas Eddie! Love it!
Posted by: Donna Atkinson | April 05, 2011 at 08:16 PM
It all looks so amazing, I need to run out and purchase this issue ASAP!!!
Posted by: kelly | April 05, 2011 at 08:07 PM
It isn't fair that ONE person has ALL your talent!! Green with envy.. but love love your blog.. congrats on the cover shot..
Posted by: Wendy | April 05, 2011 at 08:03 PM
It is all perfect. I bought the exact same napkins with plans to decoupage a box for my daughters room about a year ago. I might need to go find them.
Posted by: Kayce hughes | April 05, 2011 at 07:55 PM
Congratulations on a wonderful feature. And you're right, the magazine is indeed looking spiffier and a bit more design savvy. Love all the cheerful colors and as always fabulous table!!
Posted by: quintessence | April 05, 2011 at 07:43 PM
Those egg boxes are beautiful Eddie. I would love to open one of them and find a lovely diamond bracelet, yes? Anyway, beautiful craft project, thanks
Posted by: Diane | April 05, 2011 at 07:27 PM
how fun! i love the quick little projects! i think i have to go and buy the issue! thanks for sharing Eddie! xo susan
Posted by: susan | April 05, 2011 at 03:34 PM
I loved it! Sparkle & glitter is my favorite to decorate with, so now I must pull out the mod podge and fix a few up. You have such a creative mind and can pull of anything with beautiful flair.
xoxo,
Jen
Posted by: Jennifer | April 05, 2011 at 03:11 PM
this post made me hungry ;) Love the idea to use patterned napkins! so fresh and happy for Easter!
Posted by: Rebecca | April 05, 2011 at 02:13 PM
What a lovely spread! The eggs are darling-- it's ALL quite darling! Congrats to you and Jaithan on moving. Happy Easter!
Posted by: Muffy Martini | April 05, 2011 at 01:57 PM
Hello Eddie~
We just picked this issue and we are very glad with the new direction. Easter too is our favorite holiday. LOVE IT and all your fun projects.
Keep up the great work. If you need any handmade ornaments for any future story projects let us know.
Lianne & Paul
Swirly Designs
Posted by: Lianne & Paul | April 05, 2011 at 01:11 PM
Looks FABULOUS! When will you be working on your Christmas spreads? I am REALLY hoping you feature poinsettias in your decor this year. We farmers need your assistance in getting the word out!
Posted by: Tamara | April 05, 2011 at 01:10 PM
Lovely post :)
Posted by: Atelier de Chiqui | April 05, 2011 at 12:55 PM
Love the table setting, Eddie. Simple and celebratory! Those Easter trees are darling. Congrats on your work for Woman's Day!
Posted by: Carla@DesignintheWoods | April 05, 2011 at 12:32 PM
My mom has a subscription to Woman's Day and I have been just in love with the magazine since its "makeover". On Sunday I saw the magazine on her coffee table and was so excited by the eggs. Of course I immediately fell in love with each page of story mainly because I already own those napkins! Funny part is I didn't realize it was your story until I saw your blog post today. Guess I was too caught up in my love of the glittery and polka dot eggs to notice. Thanks for the inspiration and can't wait to make the egg topiary!
Posted by: Lauren H | April 05, 2011 at 11:53 AM
Everything looks perfect; thanks for the inspiration for a lovely Easter!
Posted by: French Basketeer | April 05, 2011 at 11:42 AM
Love the Easter feature - great job!! The turquoise and green is so fresh!
xx, Laura
Posted by: In Good Taste | April 05, 2011 at 11:06 AM
I forgot to mention that I have done a post with my Grandmother's decorated eggs. She was an artist in many ways and would have loved your Easter eggs. Her eggs were well known and displayed quite frequently in the county seat library. She would have been so inspired by your work and it would definitely been one of the Clippings she would have put in her inspiration file.
Posted by: Sherry | April 05, 2011 at 10:43 AM
So looking forward to Easter...one of my favorite holidays. I just found 8 of those chairs in the dining image on Craigslist for $300. My friend is in the midst of purchasing them...she's been searching for years, so she was ecstatic when I found 8 (she has a big family) for her. Hope you are well and love all of your ideas..will have to share with my mom and maybe we can try a few!
xx Danielle
Posted by: Danielle {freshquince} | April 05, 2011 at 10:32 AM
Gorgeous as usual. So Springy and stylish. Love it. Congrats on the cover too.
Posted by: Ginger | April 05, 2011 at 10:28 AM
TOTALLY love the freshness of the colors you chose! Have the tablecloth, NEED those grass green napkins, but where to find them?
Northern Light
Posted by: Natasha | April 05, 2011 at 09:10 AM
I bought this magazine, just because of the cover!! Loved all of the decorations...nice job, as always!!
Posted by: patti@pandoras box | April 05, 2011 at 08:12 AM
I picked up that magazine as soon as it came in the stores. It is the most Beautiful Easter display I have ever seen. You have a way of making things look so elegant and easy to do. You really have a wonderful gift. Your color combinations always amaze me. Congratulations on a job very well done!!! ~~Sherry~~
Posted by: Sherry | April 05, 2011 at 07:55 AM
E + J - you are amazing! The cover of Women's Day stopped me dead in my tracks last night at the grocery store and I had to buy a copy! I think I may just have to add the magazine to my monthly reads... Gorgeous Easter inspirations!
xxoo
Posted by: The Buzz Blog - Diane James Home | April 05, 2011 at 06:54 AM
E&J~Wishing you much happiness in your new house! Your easter ideas were great Eddie.
xxoo
Posted by: amy@maisondecor | April 05, 2011 at 06:48 AM
Your tablescapes are always stunning. I especially love this Easter one. I'd love to make a version of your egg tree. I remember my mom decorating eggs with cut outs back in the 70's. She still uses some of them!
Posted by: Paula | April 05, 2011 at 05:19 AM
Just look at that! We have a new word- instead of "awesome, we say "ridiculous"-you did "Easter" ridiculously proud!
I love the colors and the menu!
pve
Posted by: pve | April 05, 2011 at 04:56 AM
Oh MY!! What a gorgeous setting...Love it!! Will have to pick up this issue.
Posted by: Iris | April 05, 2011 at 02:00 AM
Thank you for your comment on my blog. I literally jumped that you would leave a comment! It made my day :)
Posted by: Erica Peterson | April 05, 2011 at 01:10 AM
Eddie, how gorgeous, I love the color theme of the decor, and the menu looks so yummy!!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Posted by: Karena | April 05, 2011 at 12:03 AM
yep ...
spring has sprung ...
and you helped !
love love love it all
let's chat
Posted by: savvycityfarmer | April 04, 2011 at 11:41 PM
Eddie, Easter is my favorite right behind Christmas. I love all the colors and the flowers and the bunnies, I guess I just love it all. You did an amazing job for the cover. I was so excited to buy it and see your name you always cover all the details and it is always so special. I really like the simple color pallete. you always inspire me, xo Kathysue
Posted by: Kathysue | April 04, 2011 at 11:35 PM
I love the aqua/green color scheme!
Posted by: suzq | April 04, 2011 at 10:40 PM
Eddie, I LOVE the eggs! Genuis, as always:)
Posted by: Hooper Patterson | April 04, 2011 at 10:20 PM
I am in love with that table's centerpiece with the grass and bunnies!!!!
Posted by: Shannon @ What's Up Whimsy | April 04, 2011 at 10:14 PM
My favorite blues and greens, and especially love the silver bread basket filled with Easter goodies. Great direction Woman's Day is heading!
xo Cathy
Posted by: Stitchfork | April 04, 2011 at 10:13 PM
LOVE,LOVE,LOVE!! You + Jaithan = a perfect tabletop, I'm inspired!
Posted by: Lara @ La Plates | April 04, 2011 at 10:06 PM
Totally GORGEOUS eggs! I love the decoupage idea with the napkins, fabulous!
Posted by: robyn | April 04, 2011 at 09:55 PM
Spectacular as always.
Rashon aka Mr. Goodwill Hunting
Posted by: Mr. Goodwill Hunting | April 04, 2011 at 09:47 PM
The colors are all so fresh...the table is beautiful...i cant wait to see more of the farmhouse.
Posted by: Gretchen O | April 04, 2011 at 09:42 PM
Easter is a huge holiday at our house in Kent and we are all about decorating the eggs in a creative way. Love these tips! xx
Posted by: Kate from Party Resources | April 04, 2011 at 09:19 PM
Amazing and inspiring! Congratulations on the cover shot! The eggs you decorated are beautiful. I will have to check out the magazine!! :)
Posted by: Simple Dwellings | April 04, 2011 at 09:18 PM
As usual, beautiful, fresh and colorful. Just inspires me to get on the ball (or egg) with my Easter table!
Posted by: courtneyoutloud | April 04, 2011 at 09:18 PM
Edwardo, you are brilliant....Easter is my favorite too...did you see my post on DIY Robin's eggs? super cute.
What are you doing for Easter? Would love to see you guys.
Posted by: abby jenkins | April 04, 2011 at 09:12 PM